Brain natriuretic peptide and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide show a different profile in response to acute decompensated heart failure treatment.

Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) are currently used for the diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic decision making in heart failure patients. The aim of the study was to compare BNP and NT-proBNP plasma concentration profiles in 42 patients with decompensated heart failure who underwent treatment in the emergency department. A significant decrease in both peptide concentrations fell beyond 24 hours of therapy.

Decrease in NTproBNP plasma levels indicates clinical improvement of acute decompensated heart failure.

Thirty-seven consecutive patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) admitted to emergency departments for acute dyspnea were investigated. Ten patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and 10 patients with hypertension crisis were also included as controls. For each patient, a plasma amino-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NTproBNP) concentration measurement was performed at admission, 4, 12, and 24 hours later, and on the day of discharge.